SGPC demands ban on Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency in Punjab, security tightened

New Delhi( Team Newsbuddy): The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has called for a complete ban on Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency in Punjab, accusing it of defaming the Sikh community. Just a day before the film’s release, SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami wrote to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging him to stop the film’s screening in the state.

In his letter, Dhami argued that the film misrepresents and distorts events involving Sikhs, particularly omitting key facts related to the 1984 Sikh genocide and attacks on the holiest Sikh shrines, including Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) and Akal Takht Sahib. He described the film as a tool to “spread venom under an anti-Sikh agenda.”

Security has been heightened outside cinema halls in Amritsar, ahead of the screening of actress Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’. SGPC has urged the Punjab Government to impose a ban forthwith on the movie ‘Emergency’ in all the cinema halls in the state of Punjab.

Dhami expressed disappointment over the Punjab government’s inaction despite the SGPC’s earlier requests. “We had sent a resolution to the state chief secretary, clearly stating our objections and demanding a ban. However, no steps were taken. If this movie is released today, it will naturally enrage the Sikh community,” Dhami stated.

He warned that if the film is screened, the SGPC would be compelled to stage strong protests. This is not the first time the SGPC has raised concerns about Emergency. Objections last year led to delays in the film’s release, but the controversy continues to surround the project.

Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency explores the 21-month Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977, a period often referred to as one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history.

The film features Ranaut in the role of Indira Gandhi, alongside Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan, Shreyas Talpade as Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Mahima Chaudhry as Pupul Jayakar, Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, and Vishak Nair as Sanjay Gandhi. Directed and co-written by Ranaut, the film seeks to dramatize the complexities and challenges of that tumultuous era. It was released in theaters today, January 17, 2025.

Ahead of its release, Emergency received praise from audiences and notable figures, including EaseMyTrip promoter Nishant Pitti, who attended a special screening with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. In a statement, Pitti lauded the film’s powerful storytelling, calling it “thought-provoking and evocative.” He emphasized the importance of showcasing such a significant chapter in India’s history to educate younger generations.

“Kangana has truly embodied the role with great depth and commitment. Emergency will be remembered as a significant contribution to Indian cinema,” he said. Kangana Ranaut discussed the making of Emergency and her collaboration with Anupam Kher, whom she described as the “hero” of the film. “If Anupam ji had refused to do this film, I wouldn’t have made it. His on-screen honesty and personality bring Jayaprakash Narayan to life like no one else could,” she said.

While the film is garnering attention for its bold depiction of history, the SGPC’s objections highlight the polarizing nature of its narrative. As Emergency hits theaters, its impact on audiences and the potential for political and social responses remain closely watched.